Dehydroacetic Acid: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Dehydroacetic Acid?

Dehydroacetic acid is a synthetic ingredient that helps keep cosmetic products fresh and safe. Chemically it is known as 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione, a small ring-shaped molecule related to diketones. It does not come from plants or animals; it is made in a lab through a controlled reaction that starts with acetylacetone, heat and a catalyst. The result is a white crystalline powder that dissolves well in alcohol and some oils but only slightly in water.

The compound was first studied in the 1940s for its ability to stop microbes from growing in food. Within a few decades the cosmetic industry adopted it as a gentler alternative to older preservatives that could sting or irritate skin. Today manufacturers follow Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines to produce high-purity dehydroacetic acid, usually in closed reactors that limit contamination and ensure consistent quality.

You will spot this ingredient in many personal care items such as creams, lotions, serums, face masks, sunscreens, shampoos, conditioners, makeup, deodorants and baby care products. It is often paired with other mild preservatives to create broad protection against bacteria and fungi while keeping formulas clear and stable.

Dehydroacetic Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient serves one key purpose in beauty products: it works as a preservative. By slowing the growth of bacteria, yeast and mold it helps extend a product’s shelf life, keeps textures and fragrances consistent and protects users from possible infections that can arise when a jar or bottle is opened repeatedly and stored in the bathroom or handbag.

Who Can Use Dehydroacetic Acid

Because it is used in very small amounts and is considered a gentle preservative, dehydroacetic acid suits most skin types including dry, oily and combination skin. Even sensitive skin usually tolerates it well, although people with a history of preservative allergies should stay alert for any unusual redness or itching.

The ingredient is made entirely in a lab without any animal sourced materials so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It also fits into most cruelty free standards though certification depends on the brand’s overall policies.

No data suggest that dehydroacetic acid poses a special risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when applied to the skin at normal cosmetic levels. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run every product they use past a qualified doctor to be safe.

Dehydroacetic acid does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It functions well across a broad pH range and is allowed for use by regulatory agencies such as the EU and FDA at concentrations up to 0.6 percent in rinse off and leave on products.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical dehydroacetic acid differ from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects that could occur, but they are uncommon when products are formulated correctly and used as directed.

  • Mild skin irritation such as redness, itching or a slight burning feel in people who are sensitive to preservatives
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where the immune system reacts to the molecule
  • Stinging on damaged or broken skin if applied to cuts, abrasions or sunburn
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
  • Synergistic irritation when combined with other preservatives or active ingredients that have similar effects on the skin barrier

If any of these effects occur stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Dehydroacetic acid has a comedogenic rating of 0. Used at very low levels it does not leave an oily film and its small acidic structure shows no tendency to block pores. Studies and user feedback report no increase in blackheads or pimples when it is present in otherwise non comedogenic formulas.

Because of this, the ingredient is considered safe for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.

The overall pore clogging risk of a product still depends on the full recipe so extra sensitive users may want to review all ingredients before purchase.

Summary

Dehydroacetic acid is a lab made preservative that keeps creams, lotions, shampoos and makeup free of bacteria, yeast and mold. It works by disrupting microbial cell walls which helps products stay fresh stable and safe for longer.

It is not a headline grabbing ingredient yet formulators value it because it is mild and pairs well with other gentle preservatives while working at low doses.

Regulators consider it low risk in the concentrations allowed for cosmetics, and real world reports support its good safety profile. Even so every skin is different so it is wise to patch test any new product containing dehydroacetic acid before adding it to a routine.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search